Buccaneers-Dolphins: 3 bubble players who helped their cause

Vying for the final spots on the Buccaneers roster, a few players made their case to the coaching staff in the first preseason game.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers training camp battles began to heat up in the first preseason game.

Players on the roster bubble looked to make a strong first impression. Whether they received 50 snaps or just saw the field for a drive or two, players on the fringe needed a big night.

A handful of Bucs managed to stand out despite sitting on the outside looking in. With the odds not sitting in their favor, these three players did all they could to force the coaching staff’s hand.

With reps at a premium, the following players may have earned more snaps for Saturday’s contest against the Tennesee Titans.

Sergio Bailey

In a talented group of wideouts, Sergio Bailey needed a big performance in the preseason even to have a shot at making the final 53-man roster.

Bailey came through with four receptions for 52 yards. More importantly, he was Ryan Griffin‘s go-to target on the game-winning touchdown drive.

While he put together a strong performance, Bailey has a few players he needs to jump to make the team. Freddie Martino, Bernard Reedy, Bobo Wilson and Justin Watson are all ahead of him on the depth chart.

Even with an uphill climb ahead of him, Bailey can force Tampa Bay to keep him on the practice squad.

Brad Seaton

Brad Seaton may have been the star of the first preseason game. He climbed from the bottom of the tackle depth chart to a starter with the help of a ton of injuries.

Seaton entered the game with no expectations, but he quietly gelled with the starters. As an offensive lineman, sometimes when there’s no mention of your name, it means you had a good day.

On short notice, Seaton held his own against the Miami starters. While Demar Dotson works his way back and other linemen sit out practice, Seaton can continue to rise through the ranks.

Cameron Lynch

Amidst another closely-contested camp battle, Cameron Lynch had five total tackles and a quarterback in his first action of 2018.

Lynch has his status as a veteran on his side as he enters his 5th NFL season. Lynch has familiarity with Mike Smith‘s system. He knows his role and has proven he can be a contributor on special teams.

As the Buccaneers look for depth at linebacker, Lynch’s professional approach and knack for special teams may be the difference for him.